Systems and methods for optimization of plasma collection volumes

ABSTRACT

A plasmapheresis system and a method for operating a plasmapheresis system are provided by which the volume/weight of anticoagulated plasma that is collected is optimized. In one example, a nomogram is provided that utilizes the donor&#39;s hematocrit to calculate the volume/weight of raw plasma within a plasma product having the maximum volume permitted by the FDA nomogram. In a plasmapheresis procedure having multiple collection phases followed by a reinfusion cycle in which concentrated red blood cells are returned to the donor, the volume of plasma product to be collected is calculated prior to the start of each collection cycle to account for the donor&#39;s increasing hematocrit, thus resulting in a greater total volume of plasma product to be collected during the plasmapheresis procedure.

BACKGROUND

The present application relates to systems and method for performing plasmapheresis and, more particularly, to plasmapheresis systems and methods in which the volume of source or raw plasma product that may be collected from a particular donor is optimized.

Plasmapheresis is an apheresis procedure in which whole blood is withdrawn from a donor, the plasma separated from the cellular blood components (red blood cells, platelets and leukocytes) and retained, and the cellular blood components returned to the donor. The separation of the plasma from the cellular components is typically accomplished in an automated procedure by centrifugation or membrane filtration.

In automated plasmapheresis, whole blood is drawn from the donor, mixed at a specified ratio with anticoagulant (“AC”), and then separated into anticoagulated plasma and red blood cells and other cellular components. Once a target volume of anticoagulated plasma (or “plasma product”) has been collected, as determined by a weigh scale associated with a plasma collection container, the withdrawal of whole blood from the donor ceases, and the red blood cells and other cellular components are returned to the donor. Often, the plasma product is collected in multiple collection and reinfusion cycles, until the total target volume of anticoagulated plasma has been collected. The anticoagulated plasma is used for later transfusion or further manufacturing.

Plasma that is collected to serve as a source material (“source plasma”) for further manufacturing is collected from multiple donors and combined or pooled together for this purpose. The FDA issued guidelines for registered blood collection centers as to the volume of plasma that may be collected as source plasma during plasmapheresis in order to improve the consistency of procedures for manufacturing source plasma, and to minimize the opportunity for staff error. (FDA Memo: “Volume Limits-Automated Collection of Source Plasma (Nov. 4, 1992)”). The FDA Memo noted inconsistencies due to the various types of anticoagulant solutions used, differing concentrations of the anticoagulant, and the range of anticoagulant to plasma ratios.

The FDA Memo set forth a simplified plasma volume nomogram, reproduced in the table shown in FIG. 1, in which the volume (or weight) of plasma that may be collected from a particular donor is limited to ensure donor safety and comfort. More specifically, the FDA nomogram limits the volume (or weight) of plasma based on the weight of the donor, and establishes the volume of anticoagulant that may be added to a 1:16 ratio of anticoagulant to anticoagulated blood, or 0.06 parts anticoagulant to 1 part anticoagulated blood, to arrive at a maximum collection volume for the total of the plasma plus the anticoagulant for a particular donor.

The simplified nomogram set forth in the FDA Memo has been the predominant method for determining plasma product collection volumes used by blood collection centers. Therefore, the plasmapheresis devices used at such centers are commonly programmed to collect a specified volume/weight of anticoagulated plasma (assuming a known density) in accordance with the maximum collection volume permitted by the FDA nomogram, with the anticoagulant being added to the whole blood at a 1:16 or 0.06 ratio.

One simplification made in the FDA nomogram is to exclude the consideration of donor hematocrit in determining the collection volume the plasma product. However, the relative proportions of raw plasma and anticoagulant in the plasma product depends on the donor blood hematocrit and the ratio at which the AC is combined with the donor's whole blood. As a consequence, higher hematocrit donors reach the maximum collection volume set forth in the FDA nomogram before reaching the maximum (raw) plasma volume that may be safely collected from the donor. This represents an inefficiency for the plasma collection center, in that volume of raw plasma that is collected is less than the maximum amount possible.

Further, the amount of plasma that may be safely collected from a donor can depend on factors in addition to the donor's weight and hematocrit, such as the donor's height, sex and age, as these factors affect the donor's total blood volume (and volume of plasma).

Because the source plasma from multiple donors is combined, it is important to maximize the plasma volume that may be collected from each individual donor, as even small gains in volume collected from each individual donor, when added together, result in a meaningful increase in the total volume of the pooled plasma. If a plasmapheresis device were to be able to better target the raw plasma volume, more plasma proteins could be collected from each donor, improving the overall efficiency of the plasma collection center. Accordingly, by way of the present disclosure, systems and methods for optimizing the volume of plasma collected are provided which are consistent with donor safety and comfort.

SUMMARY

By way of the present disclosure, methods are provided for operating a plasmapheresis system to collect a volume of anticoagulated plasma volume (i.e., the plasma product) that insures that the total volume of raw plasma in the plasma product is the maximum that may be collected from a particular donor consistent with donor safety and comfort, whether as dictated the donor's unique physical characteristics, as indicated by the FDA nomogram or by some other methodology.

In keeping with a first aspect of the disclosure, a method is provided for operating a plasmapheresis system to collect a plasma product volume that comprises the maximum allowable volume/weight of raw plasma in accordance with the limits set forth in the FDA nomogram based on the weight of the donor.

In order to collect the maximum volume/weight of raw plasma permitted by the FDA nomogram, a modified nomogram is provided that utilizes the donor's hematocrit to calculate a target volume/weight for a plasma product having the maximum volume of raw plasma permitted by the FDA nomogram. A calculated volume/weight of raw plasma is compared to the maximum volume/weight for the raw plasma permitted by the FDA nomogram. If the calculated volume/weight of raw plasma is less than the maximum permitted volume/weight, the volume/weight of the plasma product to be collected is adjusted upward from the maximum volume/weight permitted by the FDA nomogram for the plasma product by an amount equal to the difference plus the additional amount of anticoagulant that is added to process the additional volume/weight of plasma.

Thus, with the knowledge of the donor's hematocrit and the instrument's AC ratio, the volume of additional raw plasma that may be safely collected from the donor consistent with the limits set forth in the FDA nomogram is determined, and then the total volume/weight of plasma product to be collected based on the weight of the donor set forth in the FDA nomogram is adjusted accordingly.

Typically, plasmapheresis procedures involve sequential cycles of alternating phases, one in which whole blood is withdrawn from the donor and the plasma separated and collected, and the other in which the separated red blood cells and any other non-RBC cellular components are returned to the donor. The donor's hematocrit will change during the course of the plasmapheresis procedure, thus affecting the amount of anticoagulant in the plasma product collected from one cycle to the next.

Consequently, in the first aspect of the disclosure, before the commencement of the subsequent extraction/separation phase, a new hematocrit value for the donor is determined, and the target volume/weight of plasma product for the procedure is recalculated before the commencement of each extraction/separation phase to ensure that the maximum amount of raw plasma permitted by the FDA nomogram is collected.

In keeping with a second aspect, a further method for collecting a volume of plasma during an apheresis procedure is provided. The steps of the method comprise: determining a total whole blood volume V_(b) for the donor; determining a volume of raw plasma (V_(RP)) that may be collected from the donor based on V_(b); determining a target volume of plasma product (V_(PP)) to be collected, wherein V_(PP) is equal to the volume of raw plasma (V_(RP)) to be collected plus a volume of anticoagulant (V_(AC)) that is added to the V_(RP) during the apheresis procedure, such that V_(PP)=V_(RP)*K, where K=(ACR*(1−Hct/100)+1)/(ACR*(1−Hct/100)), based on an anticoagulant ratio (ACR, defined as the ratio of donor blood volume to anticoagulant volume for donor blood having no anticoagulant) established for the procedure and a Hct of the donor; withdrawing whole blood from the donor; adding anticoagulant to the whole blood in an amount consistent with the ACR; separating plasma product from the whole blood; and transferring the plasma product to a collection container until the volume of plasma product in the collection container reaches V_(PP). Because the plasmapheresis procedure comprises multiple extraction/separation and return phases, the V_(PP) for the procedure is recalculated before each extraction/separation phase is commenced, based on a value for the hematocrit of the donor determined prior to the start of each draw phase, and the target volume for the plasma product adjusted accordingly. Alternatively, V_(RP) may be determined based on a calculated value for the donor's total plasma volume, based on V_(b) and the donor's hematocrit.

In a third aspect, a method for determining a volume of plasma product (V_(PP)) that may be collected during an apheresis procedure is provided, wherein V_(PP) is equal to a volume of raw plasma (V_(RP)) that may be collected plus a volume of anticoagulant (V_(AC)) that is added to the V_(RP) during the apheresis procedure. The steps of the method comprise: determining a weight (W_(kg)) and sex (M or F) of the donor, determining a hematocrit (Hct) for the donor; determining the volume of raw plasma (V_(RP)) that may be collected based on the weight (W_(kg)) and sex (M or F) of the donor; determining a ratio K between the V_(PP) and the V_(RP), such that K=V_(PP)/V_(RP), based on an anticoagulant ratio (ACR) and the Hct of the donor; determining V_(PP), such that V_(PP)=V_(RP)*K. Further, K=(ACR*(1−Hct/100)+1)/(ACR*(1−Hct/100)). After V_(PP) is determined, whole blood is withdrawn from the donor; anticoagulant is added to the whole blood in an amount consistent with the ACR; plasma product is separated from the whole blood; and plasma product is transferred to a collection container. After a desired amount of whole blood has been withdrawn from the donor, the red blood cells are returned to the donor. Then, the Hct of the donor and V_(PP) are determined prior to each draw phase.

In a related aspect, the draw and separation steps are repeated until the volume of plasma product in the collection container reaches V_(PP).

In a related aspect, the donor's hematocrit subsequent to the first collection phase may be calculated by a volume balance, assuming that the donor's quantity of red blood cells is the same at the start of each draw cycle, while the total volume of blood decreases from one cycle to the next in an amount equal to the amount of raw plasma collected. Alternatively, the donor's hematocrit at the start of each draw cycle can be measured by an optical or other sensor.

In a further aspect, the volume of raw plasma that may be collected from a particular donor may be determined by any one of several different means. Such means include, e.g., the FDA nomogram, taking into account only the donor's weight; a modified FDA nomogram, further taking into account the donor's hematocrit, and taking a fraction of a total blood volume or total plasma volume calculated for a particular donor. The total blood volume or total plasma volume may be determined using, for example, Nadler's equations, Gilcher's Rule of Five, tables provided by the International Council for Standardization in Haematology (ICSH), or any other generally accepted method using the donor's height, weight, sex and age, consistent with the safety and comfort of the donor.

In a fourth aspect, an automated system for separating plasma from whole blood is provided that comprises a reusable hardware component and a disposable kit. The disposable kit further comprises i) a separator for separating whole blood into a plasma fraction and a concentrated cell fraction, the separator having an input having a blood line integrally connected thereto for transporting whole blood from a donor to the separator, a plasma output port integrally connected to a plasma collection container by a plasma line, and a concentrated cell outlet port integrally connected to a reservoir for receipt of concentrated cells prior to reinfusion to the donor; ii) a donor line terminating in a venipuncture needle for transporting whole blood from a donor to the blood line, iii) an anticoagulant line integrally connected to the blood line and configured to be connected to a source of anticoagulant for transporting anticoagulant to the donor line, and iv) a reinfusion line for transporting concentrated cells from the reservoir to the donor line.

The reusable hardware component further comprises i) a first peristaltic pump for delivering anticoagulant at a controlled rate into the blood line during a collection phase, ii) a second pump for delivering anticoagulated whole blood to the separator during the collection phase and for returning concentrated cellular components during a reinfusion phase, iii) a third pump for delivering concentrated cellular components from the separator to the reservoir during the collection phase, iv) a clamp associated with each of the blood line, plasma line, and reinfusion line, v) a weigh scale for weighing each of the plasma collection container, the reservoir and the source of anticoagulant, and vi) a programmable controller comprising a touch screen for receiving input from an operator, the programmable controller configured to receive a signal from each of the weigh scales and to automatically operate the first, second and third pumps and the clamps to separate whole blood into a plasma fraction and a concentrated cell fraction during the collection phase and to return concentrated cells to the donor during the reinfusion stage. The programmable controller is further configured to determine a target amount for the plasma product to be collected in the plasma collection container in accordance with any of the methods described herein, and to terminate the collection phase upon receiving a signal that the amount of plasma product in the plasma collection container equal to the target amount of the plasma product determined by the controller. In determining the target amount for the plasma product to be collected, the controller may be configured to calculate the hematocrit of the donor prior to the collection phase of each cycle. Alternatively, or additionally, the controller may receive a signal from a sensor or the like that is indicative of the donor's hematocrit. Further, the amount of plasma product in the plasma collection container may be determined by, e.g., the weigh scale associated with the plasma collection container or an optical sensor that directly measures the volume.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a table showing the simplified nomogram presented in the FDA Memo: “Volume Limits-Automated Collection of Source Plasma (Nov. 4, 1992)”.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an exemplary plasmapheresis instrument suitable for use in the system and method of the present application.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a spinning membrane separator of the type incorporated in a disposable set, with portions broken away to show detail, usable with the plasmapheresis system of FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view of the front panel of the plasmapheresis system of FIG. 2 showing the components of the disposable set that are mounted thereto.

FIG. 5 is a schematic view showing operation of the plasmapheresis system in the collection phase.

FIG. 6 is a schematic view showing operation of the plasmapheresis system in the reinfusion phase.

FIG. 7 is a table that shows the volume of raw plasma, based on donor hematocrit, that is contained within a plasma product volume limit set by the FDA nomogram using a 1:16 ratio of anticoagulant to whole blood.

FIG. 8 is a table that shows the volume of “unclaimed” raw plasma in the plasma product based the difference between the values set forth in FIG. 7 and the maximum volume of raw plasma that may be collected based on the FDA nomogram.

FIG. 9 is a table that shows the volume of plasma product that may be collected from a donor, based on the donor's weight and hematocrit, that results in the maximum permissible volume of raw plasma permitted by the FDA nomogram.

FIG. 10 is a table showing the inputs to a programmable controller for performing a hypothetical plasmapheresis procedure in accordance with the method of the present application.

FIGS. 11a, 11b comprise a table, broken into two parts illustrating how the donor's hematocrit increases over the course of a hypothetical plasmapheresis procedure based on the inputs from the table of FIG. 10, and resulting in an increase in the total collection volume of plasma product necessary to collect the target volume of raw plasma.

FIG. 12 is a graph illustrating IgG dilution during plasmapheresis.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

A more detailed description of the systems and methods in accordance with the present disclosure is set forth below. It should be understood that the description below of specific devices and methods is intended to be exemplary, and not exhaustive of all possible variations or applications. Thus, the scope of the disclosure is not intended to be limiting, and should be understood to encompass variations or embodiments that would occur to persons of ordinary skill.

In the context of the present application, plasmapheresis is performed on an automated system comprising a hardware component, generally designated 10, and a disposable set, generally designated 12, to collect plasma to be processed as source plasma. With reference to FIGS. 2-6, and as described in greater detail below, the disposable set 12 consists of an integrally connected separator, containers, and tubing to transport blood and solutions within a sterile fluid pathway.

The separator 14, best seen in FIG. 3, has a spinning membrane filter 16 mounted to a rotor 18 for rotation within a case 20 to separate blood into components. A detailed description of a spinning membrane separator may be found in U.S. Pat. No. 5,194,145 to Schoendorfer, which is incorporated herein by reference. As can be appreciated, in a different system, separation of the whole blood may be accomplished by centrifugation. See, e.g. U.S. Pat. No. 5,360,542 to Williamson et al.

During plasmapheresis, anticoagulated whole blood enters the separator 14 through a whole blood input port 22. The plasma is separated by the spinning membrane filter and then passes out of a plasma output port 24, through a plasma line 26, and into a plasma collection container 28. Concentrated cells are pumped out of a concentrated cell output port 30 into a reservoir 32, where the cells remain until reinfusion to the donor.

The disposable set 12 also includes tubing lines for introducing whole blood from the donor into the system during collection and returning concentrated cells to the donor during reinfusion (donor line 34, which terminates in the venipuncture needle 36), and for transporting anticoagulated whole blood to the separator (blood line 38), concentrated cells into the reservoir (cell line 40), concentrated cells from the reservoir to the donor line (reinfusion line 42), plasma into the plasma collection container (plasma line 44), saline (saline line 46), and anticoagulant (AC line 48).

The hardware component 10 includes a programmable controller 50 and touch screen 52 with a graphical user interface (“GUI”) through which the operator controls the procedure. For example, the GUI permits entry of any of a donor ID, donor sex, donor height, donor weight, donor age, donor hematocrit/hemoglobin; a target saline infusion volume (if a saline protocol is selected), and a target plasma volume. The touch screen 52 also enables the operator to gather status information and handle error conditions.

Three peristaltic pumps are located on the front panel of the hardware component 10, including an AC pump 54, a blood pump 56, and a cell pump 58. The AC pump 54 delivers anticoagulant solution (AC) at a controlled rate into the blood line 38 as whole blood enters the set from the donor. The blood pump 56 delivers anticoagulated whole blood to the separator during the collection phase of the procedure and returns concentrated cellular components and, if desired, replacement fluid to the donor during the reinfusion phase of the procedure. The cell pump 58 delivers concentrated cellular components from the separator 14 to a reservoir during the collection phase.

The front panel also includes four clamps into which the disposable set 12 is installed, including a reinfusion clamp 60, a blood clamp 62, a saline clamp 64, and a plasma clamp 66. The reinfusion clamp 60 closes to block the reinfusion line (42) during the collection phase (FIG. 5) and is open during the reinfusion phase (FIG. 6) to allow the blood pump to reinfuse the concentrated cellular components from the reservoir 32 to the donor. The blood clamp 62 opens during the collection phase to allow anticoagulated whole blood to be pumped to the separator 14 and closes during the reinfusion phase to block the blood line 38. The saline clamp 64 closes to block the saline line 46 during the collection phase and during reinfusion of the separated cellular components. If saline is to be used as a replacement fluid, the saline clamp 64 opens during the reinfusion phase. The plasma clamp 66 opens during the collection phase to allow plasma to flow into the plasma collection container 28 and closes during the reinfusion phase.

The hardware component 10 includes three weigh scales to monitor the current plasma collection volume (scale 68), the AC solution volume (scale 70), and the concentrated cellular content volume (scale 72). The system also includes various sensors and detectors, including a venous pressure sensor 74, a separator pressure sensor 76, optical blood detectors 78, and an air detector 80.

The donor is connected to the system throughout the procedure. As illustrated, the disposable set 12 includes a single venipuncture needle 36, through which whole blood is drawn from the donor in a collection phase (FIG. 5) and concentrated cells are returned to the donor in a reinfusion stage (FIG. 6). As noted above, the plasmapheresis procedure may comprise a plurality of cycles each having a collection/separation phase followed by a return or reinfusion phase. During the collection phase, the whole blood is separated into plasma and concentrated cells. The disposable set includes a plasma collection container 28 for receipt of the separated plasma and a reservoir 32 for receipt of the concentrated cells. During the reinfusion phase, the concentrated cells from the reservoir 32 are reinfused to the donor through the venipuncture needle 36. Typically, plasmapheresis performed with a single venipuncture needle 36 involves multiple cycles of collection and reinfusion.

Returning to FIG. 5, during the collection phase, anticoagulant solution (AC) is pumped at a controlled rate and mixed with whole blood as it enters the disposable set 12. The anticoagulated blood is pumped to the separator 14, where plasma is separated from the cellular components and directed to the plasma collection container 28.

The cellular components are pumped from the separator 14 to the reservoir 32. The collection phase stops when the reservoir 32 reaches an expected volume of concentrated cells or if the target plasma collection volume has been achieved.

Then, the reinfusion phase begins. With reference to FIG. 6, during the reinfusion phase, the blood pump 56 reverses direction and pumps the concentrated cells from the reservoir 32 back to the donor through the apheresis needle 36. If a saline protocol was selected, by which saline is returned to the donor as a replacement fluid for the collected plasma, the final reinfusion phase is followed by saline infusion.

In keeping with one aspect of the disclosure, the automated plasma collection device is configured to collect a volume/weight of anticoagulated plasma (i.e., the plasma product) having the maximum volume/weight of raw plasma permitted for the donor under the limits set forth in the FDA nomogram. In order to maximize the volume of raw plasma comprising the plasma product, the device is programmed with a nomogram that accounts for the donor's hematocrit. With the knowledge of the donor's hematocrit and the instrument's AC ratio, the total volume/weight of plasma product to be collected can be determined such that the plasma product includes the maximum volume/weight of raw plasma fraction that may be collected from a donor, consistent with the limits for total volume/weight of raw plasma set forth in the FDA nomogram. By having the computations programmed into the controller, the likelihood of operator error is diminished in comparison to the off-line calculation of the collection volume that is then entered into the instrument.

During plasmapheresis, when anticoagulant is mixed with whole blood as it is drawn from the donor, the anticoagulant is evenly distributed within the raw plasma in the blood. However, the amount of raw plasma in the whole blood is dependent on the hematocrit (Hct) of the whole blood. The following relationships are established:

Volume of RBC=Volume of Whole Blood*Hct/100.  [1]

Volume of Raw Plasma=Volume of Whole Blood*(1−Hct/100).  [2]

When anticoagulant is mixed with the whole blood, it is typically metered at an AC Ratio (ACR) of 16 parts of whole blood to 1 part of AC, or at 1 part of whole blood to 0.06 parts of AC.

ACR=Volume of Whole Blood/Volume of Anticoagulant (the donor blood having no anticoagulant).  [3]

(This yields a slightly different result from the FDA nomogram, which, as noted above, standardizes the volume of anticoagulant that may be added to a 1:16 ratio of anticoagulant to anticoagulated blood, or 0.06 parts anticoagulant to 1 part anticoagulated blood.)

Volume of Anticoagulated Blood=Volume of Anticoagulant+Volume of Whole Blood.  [4]

Combining equations gives:

Volume of Raw Plasma=ACR*Volume of Anticoagulant*(1−Hct/100).  [5]

Since the red cells are given back to the donor:

Volume collected Plasma=Volume of Raw Plasma+Volume of Anticoagulant.  [6]

Equations [5] and [6] can be combined to calculate the amount of anticoagulant in a given amount of collected plasma:

Volume of Anticoagulant=Volume of collected plasma/(1+ACR*(1−Hct/100)).  [7]

Further:

Volume of collected Plasma=Volume of Raw Plasma*K, where K=(ACR*(1−Hct/100)+1)/(ACR*(1−Hct/100)).  [8]

In view of the relationships expressed in the equations above, the volume of raw plasma contained within the volume of plasma product permitted under the FDA nomogram can be determined based upon the hematocrit of the donor. The results of such calculations are set forth in FIG. 7, which shows the volume of raw plasma based on donor hematocrit that is contained within a plasma product volume limit set by the FDA nomogram.

As can be appreciated with reference to FIG. 7, for donors weighing from 110 to 149 lbs. (for whom the maximum plasma product volume per the FDA nomogram is 690 mL), if the donor has a hematocrit of 42 or greater, the volume of raw plasma collected is less than the 625 mL permitted by the FDA nomogram. The situation is similar for donors having a weight of 150 to 174 lbs. (for whom the maximum plasma collection volume per the FDA nomogram is 825 mL) and for donors having a weight of 175 lbs. and up (for whom the maximum plasma collection volume per the FDA nomogram is 880 mL) when the donor's hematocrit is 40 or greater.

The table set forth in FIG. 8 presents the volume of “unclaimed” raw plasma in the plasma product based the difference between the values set forth in FIG. 7 and the maximum volume of raw plasma that may be collected based on the FDA nomogram. Thus, as shown in the table set forth in FIG. 9, the plasma product collected from any particular donor may be adjusted from that set forth in the FDA nomogram by an amount corresponding to the amount of “unclaimed” raw plasma set forth in FIG. 8 plus the amount of anticoagulant needed to process the additional volume.

Alternatively, the volume of plasma product to be collected may be calculated by first determining a weight and hematocrit (Hct) for the donor; determining the volume of raw plasma (V_(RP)) that may be collected based on the weight of the donor (W_(kg)); determining a ratio K between the V_(PP) and the V_(RP), such that K=V_(PP)/V_(RP), based on an anticoagulant ratio (ACR, 1:16 or 0.06:1, per the FDA nomogram) and the Hct of the donor; and determining V_(PP), such that V_(PP)=V_(RP)*K. Further, K=(ACR*(1−Hct/100)+1)/(ACR*(1−Hct/100)).

In a further alternative, the volume of plasma product that is to be collected (V_(PP)) may be calculated by first determining the weight (W_(kg)) and hematocrit (Hct) of the donor; determining the volume of raw plasma (V_(RP)) that may be collected based on the weight of the donor (W_(kg)); determining the volume of anticoagulant to be added (V_(AC)) based on the anticoagulant ratio (ACR, 1:16 or 0.06:1, per the FDA nomogram) and the hematocrit of the donor such that V_(AC)=V_(RP)*(ACR*(1−Hct/100)); and determining the collection volume such that V_(PP)=V_(RP)+V_(AC).

Various methods may be used for determining the volume of raw plasma that may be collected based on the weight of the donor. For example, the weight of the donor may be multiplied by an established constant “K₁” (such as 10 mL/kg). Alternatively, the weight of the donor may be segregated into weight categories, with a fixed volume established for each category (as in the FDA nomogram discussed above, in which the ranges of donor weight are divided into three categories).

Alternatively, a donor's plasma volume may be estimated based on the donor's total blood volume, and a volume of plasma that may be harvested consistent with donor safety and comfort may be based on this estimation. Methods utilizing donor parameters are commonly used estimate a donor's total blood volume. Examples of such methods include Nadler's equations (that take into account the height, sex and weight of the donor), Gilcher's Rule of Five (that takes into account sex, weight and morphology (obese, thin, normal or muscular), or the standards of the International Counsel for Standardization in Haematology (“ICSH) as set forth in Br. J. Haem. 1995, 89:748-56) (that take into account the height, weight, age and sex of the donor). Any other generally accepted methodology for determining donor's total blood volume may also be used. Once the donor's total blood volume is determined, the donor's plasma volume may be estimated by multiplying the total blood volume by a constant “K₂”, where or K₂ equals (1−Hct of the donor).

From an analysis of demographic, examination, and laboratory data from the 2015-2016 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, in which sex, age, height, weight, pregnancy data and hematocrit were extracted, presented in Pearson et al., Interpretation of measured red cell mass and plasma volume in adults: Expert Panel on Radionuclides of the International Council for Standardization in Haematology, British J. Haematology, 89: 748-756 (1995), (upon which the ICSH recommended formulae were derived), it has been determined that for donors having certain characteristics (namely low weight females with high hematocrits), up to 36% of the available plasma may be collected while staying within current regulations. Plasmapheresis procedures with such donors have been carried out routinely without adverse reactions, and thus are considered safe. This suggests that up to 36% of a donor's available plasma can be safely collected in a plasmapheresis procedure.

Given that only negative deviations of a donor's true blood volume from a predicted/calculated total blood volume present a potential risk, a further adjustment downward of the harvestable volume of plasma may be appropriate. Based on a consideration of the deviation between the calculated blood volume as determined in Pearson et al., cited above, and the experimental blood volume data presented in Retzlaff et al., Erythrocyte Volume, Plasma Volume, and Lean Body Mass in Adult Men and Women, J. Haematology, 33, 5:649-667 (1969), there is a 95% confidence that an individual's predicted blood volume will differ not more that 20.5%. Thus a scaling factor of 0.795 may be applied to determination of harvestable raw plasma being 36% of the donor's total plasma volume described above, so that 28.6% of a donor's calculated volume of raw plasma may be harvested, consistent with donor safety and comfort.

Alternatively, an adjustment V_(C) may be made to the calculated volume of whole blood V_(WB) before calculating the volume of harvestable plasma V_(RP), such the V_(RP)=0.36(1−Hct)(V_(WB)−V_(C)). A regression analysis of the data presented by Retzlaff resulted in a determination of V_(C)=523 mL.

Thus, the collection volume (the volume of plasma product) is determined based on the volume of raw plasma volume that may be collected from a particular donor, the donor's hematocrit, and the fixed anticoagulant ratio (ACR). Consequently, this methodology allows for more consistent control for the raw plasma volume of the donor, which is the variable most related to donor safety.

In practice, the operator enters into the system controller the collection volume for the plasma product for the particular donor, based on the target volume of raw plasma that may be harvested. The target plasma collection volume may be as set forth in FIG. 9, based on the donor's weight and hematocrit for the initial collection phase, or by any of the other methods as set forth above. Alternatively, the controller is configured to calculate the target plasma product collection volume for the initial collection phase in accordance with a methodology such as those described above upon the operator entering, e.g., the donor's weight and hematocrit, and/or any of the additional donor-specific information (such as the donor's sex, height and age) required by the methodologies used for determining a donor's total blood volume, total plasma volume, and the target volume of harvestable plasma that may be collected. In a further alternative, the plasma collection device may be integrated with a donor management system, by which donor parameters used for qualification screening (such as weight, hematocrit, etc.) can be electronically sent to the instrument, eliminating the opportunity for operator error in entering the donor parameters. The donor management system could also utilize the donor screening measurements, along with the relationship between raw plasma volume and collection volume, to automatically calculate a plasma collection volume that it would transmit to the controller of the plasmapheresis device.

As noted above, plasmapheresis procedures are performed with multiple cycles of collection/draw phases and return/reinfusion phases. If the return/reinfusion phase does not include reinfusion of a replacement fluid, the donor's hematocrit will increase from one cycle to the next. Consequently, if the target volume for plasma product is determined based only on the donor's initial hematocrit, and does not take into account the donor's increasing hematocrit, the volume of anticoagulant in the plasma product will be greater (and the volume of raw plasma less) than what was predicted by the initial calculation for determining the target volume of plasma product. Thus, in order to ensure that the volume of plasma product that is collected contains the maximum volume of raw plasma that was determined to be harvested from a particular donor, the target volume for plasma product is recalculated periodically throughout the plasmapheresis procedure, such as before the start of the collection phase of each cycle, to take into account the change in the donor's hematocrit.

Accordingly, a determination of the target volume for plasma product based on the donor's starting hematocrit is made. The plasmapheresis procedure commences with a first draw phase until a specified volume of whole blood (typically approximately 500 mL) has been withdrawn from the donor. Anticoagulant is added to the whole blood and the anticoagulated whole blood is separated into a plasma product, red blood cells, and other non-RBC blood components. At the conclusion of the first draw phase, the red blood cells and non-RBC blood components are returned to the donor. The current volume of plasma product collected after the first draw phase is determined by, e.g., the weigh scale. Then a current value for the hematocrit of the donor is established and a new target volume of plasma product to be collected is determined, and the second cycle of draw and return phases is performed. The cycle of draw and return phases is repeated until the target volume of plasma product tor the plasmapheresis procedure is collected, as recalculated prior to the start of each draw phase. After the final collection phase, the controller initiates the final red blood cell reinfusion stage, after which the donor is disconnected.

The benefits of performing a plasmapheresis procedure having multiple collection/reinfusion cycles in accordance with the methodology set forth above may be seen by reference to the tables of FIGS. 10 and 11 a, 11 b. FIG. 10 displays the input data for a hypothetical plasmapheresis procedure for a donor weighing 190 lbs. (86.4 kg) and having an initial hematocrit of 44. With reference to the table of FIG. 1, the simplified FDA nomogram would limit the volume of plasma to be collected from such a donor to 800 mL, and the total collection volume for the plasma product to 880 mL. In the present example, the FDA nomogram limit on the volume of raw plasma that may be collected is for illustrative purposes only. As set forth above, other methodologies may be used to determine the amount of raw plasma that may be safely extracted from a donor that would differ from that indicated by the FDA nomogram.

The number of collection and reinfusion cycles in a plasmapheresis procedure may vary from three to twelve. In the hypothetical plasmapheresis procedure, there are five collection and reinfusion cycles, which are chosen for illustrative purposes.

Before the commencement of the first collection cycle, the volume of raw plasma to be collected and the total target volume of plasma product to be collected are determined in accordance with the methodologies described above, based on the donor's initial hematocrit. As set forth in the first row of the table (Cycle 1 start), the initial target volume for the plasma product to be collected is 889 mL, which is the same as indicated by the table of FIG. 9 for a donor having a weight of 175 lbs. and up and a hematocrit of 44 in order to harvest the FDA limit of 800 mL of raw plasma from the donor.

During each collection phase, 500 mL of whole blood is drawn from the donor, to which anticoagulant is added at a predetermined ratio (i.e., 1:16), such that 31 mL is added for each collection cycle of 500 mL. The whole blood plus anticoagulant is separated into a plasma fraction and a red blood cell fraction.

During the first return phase (Cycle 1 return end), the red blood cells and “non-RBC” blood components are returned to the donor, so that at the end of the first return cycle the donor's hematocrit has increased to 45.6%, as calculated by the controller based on a blood volume being decreased by the amount of raw plasma collected, while the quantity of red blood cells in the total blood volume remains the same as at the start of the procedure. The controller can also account for the volume of anticoagulant that is reinfused in each return phase along with the red blood cells, as well as the residual anticoagulant in the donor's whole blood being drawn in cycles 2 and following, when determining the new hematocrit value for the next cycle. The volume of raw plasma and the total target volume of plasma product to be collected for the procedure are then recalculated based on the donor's new, increased hematocrit and raw plasma volume. This provides for a new total target collection volume of 891 mL.

The second collection phase is then performed, resulting in a total of 430 mL of plasma product comprising 386 mL of raw plasma being collected over the first two collection phases (Cycle 2 draw end). The red blood cells and “non-RBC” blood components are again returned to the donor, after which the donor's hematocrit is calculated to be 47.2%.

Two more collection phases of 500 mL are performed, each followed by a return phase, in which new values for the volume of raw plasma and total volume of plasma product to be collected are determined before the start of each collection phase. With the increasing hematocrit of the donor, the recalculated target collection volume for procedure increases to 893 mL (for the third collection phase) and then to 894 mL (for the fourth collection phase). A fifth “mini” collection cycle is performed to bring the volume of raw plasma collected up to the 800 mL permitted by the FDA nomogram for the hypothetical donor. The recalculated target collection volume of plasma product for the fifth collection phase remains at 894 mL.

Thus, as illustrated in the example above, when the target collection volume for the plasma product is recalculated for each collection phase, a target collection volume for the plasma product of 894 mL is obtained, which is required in order to collect the target volume of raw plasma of 800 mL. In contrast, 889 mL of plasma product would have been collected if the target collection volume is determined based only on the donor's initial hematocrit, or 880 mL if the target collection volume is based on the simplified FDA nomogram. In both cases, less than the target volume of 800 mL would have been collected.

As can be appreciated, the greater the accuracy with which the hematocrit of the donor can be determined, both before and during the procedure, the more likely the target volume of plasma product collected will include the maximum volume of raw plasma that can be collected for a particular donor. As described above, the hematocrit of the donor during the procedure is based on the assumptions that 100% of the red blood cells that are withdrawn in each draw cycle are reinfused in each return cycle, along with 100% of the non-RBC cellular products and a volume of anticoagulant. However, it has been determined that during the course of a blood separation procedure, interstitial fluid can shift to the intravascular space, resulting in restoring half of the withdrawn volume. See, Saito et al., Interstitial fluid shifts to plasma compartment during blood donation, Transfusion 2013; 53(11):2744-50. The shifted interstitial fluid is in addition to the red blood cells, non-RBC cellular products, and anticoagulant that are reinfused in each return phase. Thus, accounting for the shift of interstitial fluid would result in a more accurate hematocrit determination, and thus a more accurate determination of the target volume for plasma product that will result in the maximum amount of raw plasma.

The shift of interstitial fluid during plasmapheresis has been substantiated by tracking the level of Immunoglobulin G (IgG) of a donor over the course of a plasmapheresis procedure. See, e.g., Burkhardt et al., Immunoglobulin G levels during collection of large volume plasma for fractionation; Transfusion 2017; 56:417-420. If no interstitial fluid was being shifted, the IgG level of the donor would be stable over the course of the plasmapheresis procedure. However, the IgG level has been shown to drop, and the amount that the IgG level drops is a function of the volume of interstitial fluid that has shifted to the blood system.

With reference to FIG. 12, a plot of volume of plasma collected (along the X-axis versus IgG concentration (along the Y-axis) that was developed empirically is shown. A 9% drop of the donor's IgG is seen from the baseline of zero plasma collected (at the start of the procedure) to 200 mL of plasma collected, and a drop of an additional 4% from 200 mL to 800 mL collected. This was attributable to a shift of interstitial fluid equal to approximately 9% of the donor's initial total blood volume (after 200 mL of plasma being collected) to approximately 13% of the donor's initial total blood volume (after 800 mL of plasma being collected).

Based on the plot of FIG. 12, the following relationship between the amount that the donor's IgG concentration and the volume of plasma collected has been established: y=1.0017x^(−0.02), where y=IgG concentration and x=plasma volume collected. Thus, the percentage of the donor's blood volume that is replaced by the shift of interstitial fluid is equal to V_(b)(1−y), where V_(b) is the donor's initial volume of whole blood. Thus, the shifted volume of interstitial fluid can be calculated based on the volume of plasma collected, and this amount can be added to the volume of red blood cells, non-RBC cellular products and anticoagulant reinfused in each return phase to determine the current total blood volume, and thus hematocrit, of the donor. As can be appreciated, the controller can be configured to automatically determine the volume of interstitial fluid that has shifted based on the volume of plasma collected, and to include the shifted volume when determining the donor's hematocrit prior to each draw phase.

Alternatively, other methods that directly measure the donor's hematocrit may be employed, such as an optical sensor or, if a centrifugal separator is being used, measuring the volume of red blood cells in the centrifuge.

In addition, anticoagulant is commonly introduced into the disposable kit prior to the commencement of the plasmapheresis procedure in pre-processing steps, such as for priming the disposable kit, performing one or more pre-cycles, or for performing other pre-procedure steps. To the extent that anticoagulant used for these purposes is ultimately directed to the plasma product collection container, it may be accounted for in determining the volume contained in the plasma collection container that results in the target volume of raw plasma being collected. This may be done, for example, by measuring the weight of the “full” container of anticoagulant and the weight of the container of anticoagulant prior to the commencement of the first draw cycle, and adding that volume of anticoagulant to the target volume of plasma product. The controller can be configured to automatically perform the steps necessary to account for the anticoagulant introduced into the plasma collection container separately from the anticoagulated plasma.

The methods and system set forth above have several aspects. In a first aspect, a method for collecting plasma in which plasma product is collected in multiple collection phases between which separated red blood cells are reinfused to the donor is provided. The method of this first aspect comprises a) determining a volume of whole blood (V_(b)) and hematocrit (Hct) for a donor; b) determining a volume of raw plasma (V_(RP)) that may be collected from the donor; c) determining a volume of plasma product (V_(PP)) that may be collected, wherein the plasma product comprises the raw plasma volume plus a volume of anticoagulant; d) withdrawing whole blood from the donor; e) introducing anticoagulant into the withdrawn whole blood at a specified ratio (ACR); f) separating the withdrawn whole blood into a plasma product and a second component comprising red blood cells; g) collecting the plasma product in a plasma collection container; h) after a desired amount of whole blood has been withdrawn from the donor, returning the red blood cells to the donor; and i) determining the Hct of the donor and V_(PP) prior to each collection phase.

In a second aspect, steps d)-i) are continued until a measured volume of plasma product in the collection container equals V_(PP).

In a third aspect, a method for collecting plasma in which plasma product is collected in multiple collection phases between which separated red blood cells are reinfused to the donor is provided. The method of this second aspect comprises: a) determining a volume of whole blood (V_(b)) and hematocrit (Hct) for a donor; b) determining a volume of raw plasma (V_(RP)) that may be collected from the donor based on V_(b); c) determining a volume of anticoagulant V_(AC) to be added to the V_(RP) based on an anticoagulant ratio (ACR) and the Hct of the donor, such that V_(AC)=V_(RP)*(ACR*(1−Hct)); d) determining a volume of plasma product (V_(PP)) that may be collected, wherein the plasma product comprises the raw plasma volume (V_(RP)) plus the volume of anticoagulant (V_(AC)); e) withdrawing whole blood from the donor; f) introducing anticoagulant into the withdrawn whole blood at the specified ratio (ACR); g) separating the withdrawn whole blood into a plasma product and a second component comprising red blood cells; h) collecting the plasma product in a plasma collection container; i) after a desired amount of whole blood has been withdrawn from the donor, returning the red blood cells to the donor; and j) determining the Hct of the donor and V_(PP) prior to each collection phase.

In a fourth aspect, steps d)-j) are continued until a measured volume of plasma product in the collection container equals V_(PP).

In a fifth aspect, V_(b) is determined based on one or more donor specific characteristics including a donor's weight, height, sex, age, and morphology.

In a fourth aspect, a method is provided for collecting a volume of plasma product (V_(PP)) in an apheresis procedure in which plasma product is collected in multiple collection phases between which separated red blood cells are reinfused to the donor. In the method of this fourth aspect, V_(PP) is equal to a volume of raw plasma (V_(RP)) that may be collected from a donor plus a volume of anticoagulant (V_(AC)) that is added to the V_(RP) during the apheresis procedure. The steps of the method comprise: a) determining a weight (W_(kg)) and sex (M or F) for the donor; b) determining a hematocrit (Hct) for the donor; c) determining the volume of raw plasma (V_(RP)) that may be collected based on the weight (W_(kg)) and sex (M or F) of the donor; d) determining a ratio K between the V_(PP) and the V_(RP), such that K=V_(PP)N_(RP), based on an anticoagulant ratio and the Hct of the donor; e) determining V_(PP), such that V_(PP)=V_(RP)*K; f) withdrawing whole blood from the donor; g) introducing anticoagulant into the withdrawn whole blood at a specified ratio (ACR); h) separating the withdrawn whole blood into a plasma product and a second component comprising red blood cells; i) collecting the plasma product in a plasma collection container; j) after a desired amount of whole blood has been withdrawn from the donor, returning the red blood cells to the donor; and k) determining the Hct of the donor and the target V_(PP) prior to each collection phase.

In a fifth aspect, steps c)-k) are repeated until a measured volume of plasma product in the collection container equals V_(PP). Preferably, K=V_(PP)/V_(RP)=(ACR*(1−Hct/100)+1)/(ACR*(1−HCT/100)).

In a fifth aspect, a method is provided for collecting a volume of plasma product (V_(PP)) in an apheresis procedure in which plasma product is collected in multiple collection phases between which separated red blood cells are reinfused to the donor. In this fifth aspect V_(PP) is equal to a volume of raw plasma (V_(RP)) that may be collected from a donor plus a volume of anticoagulant (V_(AC)) that is added to the V_(RP) during the apheresis procedure. The steps of the method comprise: a) determining a weight (W_(kg)) and sex (M or F) for the donor; b) determining a hematocrit (Hct) for the donor; c) determining the volume of raw plasma (V_(RP)) that may be collected based on the weight of the donor (W_(kg)) and the sex (M or F) of the donor; d) determining the V_(AC) to be added to the V_(RP) based on an anticoagulant ratio (ACR) and the Hct of the donor, such that V_(AC)=V_(RP)*(ACR*(1−Hct)); e) determining V_(PP), such that V_(PP)=V_(RP)+V_(AC); f) withdrawing whole blood from the donor; g) introducing anticoagulant into the withdrawn whole blood at a specified ratio (ACR); h) separating the withdrawn whole blood into a plasma product and a second component comprising red blood cells; i) collecting the plasma product in a plasma collection container; j) after a desired amount of whole blood has been withdrawn from the donor, returning the red blood cells to the donor; and k) determining the Hct of the donor and V_(PP) prior to each collection phase.

In a sixth aspect, steps d)-k) are continued until a measured volume of plasma product in the collection container equals V_(PP).

In a seventh aspect, V_(RP) is determined by establishing the V_(RP) for each of a plurality of ranges of donor weight, and selecting the V_(RP) for the range of weight that is inclusive of the weight of the donor. The ranges of donor weight may be in three categories from 110 to 149 lbs., 150 to 174 lbs., and 175 lbs. and up.

In an eighth aspect, V_(R)p=K₁*W_(kg).

In a ninth aspect, V_(RP) is no greater than 28.6% of (1−Hct)*(V_(b)).

In a tenth aspect, V_(b) is determined using one of Nadler's equations, Gilcher's Rule of Five, the standards of the ICSH, and any other generally accepted methodology.

In an eleventh aspect, V_(RP)=W_(kg)*10 mL/kg.

In a twelfth aspect, when donor parameters are used to estimate a total blood volume (V_(b)) for the donor, V_(RP)=K₂*V_(b).

In a thirteenth aspect, an automated system for separating plasma from whole blood is provided comprising a reusable hardware component and a disposable kit. The disposable kit further comprises i) a separator for separating whole blood into a plasma fraction and a concentrated cell fraction, the separator having an input having a blood line integrally connected thereto for transporting whole blood from a donor to the separator, a plasma output port integrally connected to a plasma collection container by a plasma line, and a concentrated cell outlet port integrally connected to a reservoir for receipt of concentrated cells prior to reinfusion to the donor; ii) a donor line terminating in a venipuncture needle for transporting whole blood from a donor to the blood line, iii) an anticoagulant line integrally connected to the blood line and configured to be connected to a source of anticoagulant for transporting anticoagulant to the donor line, iv) a saline line configured to be attached to a source of saline for transporting saline to the blood line, and v) a reinfusion line for transporting concentrated cells from the reservoir to the donor line. The reusable hardware component further comprises i) a first peristaltic pump for delivering anticoagulant at a controlled rate into the blood line during a collection phase, ii) a second pump for delivering anticoagulated whole blood to the separator during the collection phase and for returning concentrated cellular components during a reinfusion phase, iii) a third pump for delivering concentrated cellular components from the separator to the reservoir during the collection phase, iv) a clamp associated with each of the blood line, plasma line, reinfusion line and saline line, v) a weigh scale for weighing each of the plasma collection container, the reservoir and the source of anticoagulant, and vi) a programmable controller comprising a touch screen for receiving input from an operator, the programmable controller configured to receive a signal from each of the weigh scales and to automatically operate the first, second and third pumps and the clamps to separate whole blood into a plasma fraction and a concentrated cell fraction during the collection phase and to return concentrated cells to the donor during the reinfusion stage. The programmable controller is further configured to determine the weight of the plasma fraction to be collected in the plasma collection container in accordance with any of the aspects described herein, and to terminate the collection phase upon receiving a signal from the weigh scale for the plasma collection container equal to the weight of the plasma fraction determined by the controller. In determining the target amount for the plasma product to be collected, the controller may be configured to calculate the hematocrit of the donor prior to the collection phase of each cycle. Alternatively, or additionally, the controller may receive a signal from a sensor or the like that is indicative of the donor's hematocrit. Further, the amount of plasma product in the plasma collection container may be determined by, e.g., the weigh scale associated with the plasma collection. In one embodiment, the separator comprises a spinning membrane separator.

It will be understood that the embodiments described are illustrative of some of the applications of the principles of the present subject matter. Numerous modifications may be made by those skilled in the art without departing from the spirit and scope of the claimed subject matter, including those combinations of features that are individually disclosed or claimed herein. For these reasons, the scope of the claims is not limited to the above-description, but is set forth in the following claims. 

1.-36. (canceled)
 37. A system for collecting plasma comprising: a venipuncture needle for drawing whole blood from a donor; a blood separator for separating the whole blood into a plasma product and a second blood component comprising red blood cells, the blood separator having a plasma output port connected to a plasma line for sending the plasma product component to a plasma product collection container; a donor line fluidly connected to the venipuncture needle for introducing the whole blood from the donor to the separator and for returning concentrated red blood cells to the donor, flow through the first line being controlled by a first pump; an anticoagulant line connected to an anticoagulant source, the anticoagulant line configured to introduce anticoagulant into the donor line; and a controller configured to control the operation of the blood component separation device and the first pump, the controller configured to calculate a target donor raw plasma volume to be collected prior to an initial draw phase and/or a target plasma product volume to be collected based, at least in part, on a weight, height and sex of the donor and a hematocrit of the donor and the volume of anticoagulant to be added to the target donor raw plasma volume based on an anticoagulant ratio and the hematocrit of the donor.
 38. The system of claim 37 wherein the controller is further configured to determine the hematocrit of the donor and the target plasma product collection volume prior to each draw phase.
 39. The system of claim 37 wherein the controller is further configured to initiate a final return of the second blood component when a measured volume of plasma product in the plasma collection container equals the target plasma product collection volume.
 40. The system of claim 37 wherein the controller is further configured to account for anticoagulant introduced into the plasma collection container separately from the plasma product.
 41. The system of claim 37 wherein the controller is further configured to account for anticoagulant introduced into the plasma collection container separate from the plasma product attributable to a priming or other pre-processing step. 